I thought I'd write down the things that helped me the most to get started on VLF eating habits and are making it easy to stay there, too: 1) Rice Cooker. Cost: 40.-. With Steamer inset. Allows me to cook FF foods with minimal effort, especially for lunches to take to work. 2) Full spice rack with herbs, spices, FF sauces, vinegars, FF dressings, etc. Allows me to cook interesting foods without shopping. Cost varies, but was built up gradually. 3) A larder, stocked with canned veggies, FF snacks, and a freezer compartment with a selection of favorite frozen veggies. Allows me to snack on the healthy foods that I prefer. Cost: Comes from food budget. I actually spend less on food than I used to. 4) Bread Maker. Cost: 200.-. Sweet breads, spicy breads, heavy breads, light breads, all FF, fresh and enticing. Who needs chips! 5) The Ornish book with many, many gourmet recipes. My family is in the deli food business. Gourmet food is a basic food group to me. Thank Ornish I don't have to live without it! Cost: ~20.- for hardcover version. 6) This mailing list. You all know the benefits.... Cost: Free or cost of email carrier. Note on cost: I have definitly passed the break-even point of the initial investments. Healthy ingredients are cheaper! Isnt' that funny!